In recent developments, Lalbaug, Ganesh Utsav Mandal has decided to not accept any monetary contributions from the people in view of COVID-19. The famous Ganpati Mandal ‘king of Lalbaug’ receives crores of rupees every year in the form of jewellery and cash. The donations come from devotees all over the country who come in large numbers to worship the Ganesha during the 11 days of the festival. Although every year the Mandal spends money on social causes like financial help for MRI, CT scan, dialysis along with advanced computer training and yoga classes, this year the Mandal has decided to let go of any monetary contributions in light of COVID-19 which has affected thousands all across the country.
The Ganesh Utsav happens to be one of the most popular festivals in Mumbai. Some of the popular Mandals across the city spend thousands of rupees to provide a secure festive atmosphere all the while protecting the Elephant God from the increasing threat of terrorist attacks. In the previous years, the three largest Ganesh Mandals in the city, Lalbaug Cha Raja Ganesh Mandal, Lalbaug Sarvajanik Utsav Mandal and GSB Ganesh Mandal, had put in place a complete security set-up. Lalbaug Cha Raja, one of the most popular with maximum devotees had installed 30-32 closed-circuit television (CCTV) cameras, 8-10 metal detector frames along with hand metal detectors, and fire extinguishers. The security need is pressing since the Ganpati idol usually wears kilos of gold, worth crores.
The outbreak of the coronavirus has seemed to cast a dark spell on people all over the world. The city’s usual jubilant mood to celebrate the elephant god comes to a standstill as people struggle to practice social distancing norms. Even though people are expecting lockdown relaxations in the coming months, festivals across the country must come to a halt keeping in mind the safety and security of people residing in the country.
Share
Tweet
